Sennheiser, makers of professional audio equipment, like microphones and monitors, as well as quality consumer-grade headphones, has decided to bridge the two worlds with a new line of ear buds, unveiled today at CES. The company says the "IE" series will bring "the same pro-grade audio that performers have trusted on-stage for years straight to consumers." All three models feature "dynamic transducers that cover the entire frequency range with one system," and "offer the greatest reduction of ambient noise with unparalleled sound quality in the portable sector." Sure, that's PR speak, but hopefully what it really means is better sound for those of us who spend more time listening to MP3's than mixing master tracks.

The lower-end IE 6 is for the "bass enthusiast," boasts an impressive frequency response of 10 to 18,000 Hz, and passive attenuation up to 20 dB. On the high-end IE 8, frequency response is adjustable on each ear, with a range from 10 to 20,000 Hz, and passive attenuation up to 26 dB. The IE 7 model is designed to deliver balanced, natural sound, with a focus on the high-end. All three come with kevlar-reinforced cables, so you can tell people your headphones are bulletproof. Just make sure they don't have the meansor inclination to test that boast.

No word on pricing yet, but doubtless more info will surface once we get closer to the scheduled March (April for the IE 8) release dates.

Post by Matt Safford